RVI

ProVision's Borescopes a Real Bargain

In the never-ending quest for low-cost borescopes, mechanics may be interested in the ProVision series. Sold by Aviall and other parts distributors like Wag-Aero, the ProVision is so far the least-expensive borescope that I've been able to find. Prices range from $299 (retail) for the smallest PV-100 to $825 for the largest PV-960, although street prices for the PV-100 are closer to $200. The ProVision flexible borescopes range in lengths from 18 inches to 96 inches and diameters of 5.8 to 10.6 millemeters. Power is provided by two AA cell batteries.

Benefits of the ProVision 100 are its very light weight (only 8 ounces) and ease of use. Once the batteries are installed, the ProVision 100 can be used one-handed. A focusing ring near the eyepiece can be adjusted to bring the 40-degree field of view into focus. Objects can be viewed up to a minimum of 0.8 inches, any closer than that and the view will be distorted.

I tried the ProVision 100 on a piston-engine cylinder and a light airplane airframe. The view delivered by the ProVision 100 is adequate. I was able to get a clear picture of the cylinder walls and of some hard-to-see parts of the airframe. Unfortunately, the view is not as sharp as a more expensive rigid borescope like the Gradient Lens Hawkeye or Lenox Autoscope, both of which are in the sub-$1,000 range. The ProVision tip, when looking through the eyepiece, seems to have some kind of screen that slightly distorts the item being viewed no matter how well in focus it is or how carefully the tip is kept the proper distance from the object.

The ProVision 100 comes in a lightweight carrying case that keeps it protected. Optional accessories include a halogen bulb, clip-on 45-degree mirror, and magnetic tip, which would be handy for retrieving dropped steel hardware from hard-to-reach spots.

More information on the ProVision borescopes is available at www.provision100.com.